How it works
A floor rate turns a carrier’s selected minimum RPM into a dollar amount. It is an internal policy calculation, not a quote of prevailing market rates.
The formula
Keep currency, units and time periods consistent. Percentage inputs use percentage points (enter 5 for 5%). Results are rounded only for display; tiny nonzero values may use scientific notation. Undefined ratios are shown as unavailable.
At $2.25/mi with 600 loaded and 100 deadhead miles included, the floor is $1,575. A $1,500 posted rate is $75 below that policy floor.
Calculation method
The loaded-only policy checks empty miles against a separate limit. The allowance policy charges only deadhead above the entered allowance and never creates negative chargeable miles.
Interpretation
A floor, target and asking rate serve different negotiation roles. The tool displays the values and flags an inverted ladder; it does not automatically decide whether a load should be booked.
Limitations
Use your own carrier costs, fee agreements and approved revenue. These are planning estimates, not booking recommendations or guarantees. Inputs stay in your browser; no trip or settlement figures are saved.
Using this in a dispatch decision
Use your carrier’s chosen mileage policy consistently during negotiation. A $2.25 floor over 700 chargeable miles requires $1,575. This is your mathematical floor under that policy; it does not establish the rate a broker will accept.
Method and reference sources
Method and content checked 2026-09-20. These sources provide background, not endorsement or professional certification. The formula and limitations above define this calculator.
- ATRI — Trucking researchOperating-cost research context. No industry-average cost or contractual compensation rate is automatically used.
Frequently asked questions
Is the minimum rate a market-rate forecast?
No. It is a floor derived from your entered operating assumptions and target. Market availability and negotiation outcomes are outside this model.
What is a worked example for Minimum Load Rate?
At $2.25/mi with 600 loaded and 100 deadhead miles included, the floor is $1,575. A $1,500 posted rate is $75 below that policy floor.